Microtransactions in gaming often spark heated debates. While some dismiss them with a simple ‘don’t buy if you don’t like it,’ most players unite against ‘pay-to-win’ mechanics. These systems, which allow real-money purchases to grant unfair in-game advantages like instant XP boosts or exclusive loot, are widely disliked. Jagex, the developer of RuneScape, has frequently faced criticism for its ‘Treasure Hunter’ system, a daily activity offering prizes that many consider pay-to-win. However, this controversial feature might soon be a thing of the past.
Earlier this year, Jagex faced significant backlash after a survey hinted at more expensive RuneScape memberships with fewer benefits. Following this, the company committed to “materially changing” the popular MMO’s monetization. CEO John Bellamy openly stated that the existing systems were “harming RuneScape,” signaling a shift in their approach.
In a previous week-long trial on July 21, Jagex temporarily disabled microtransactions for Treasure Hunter. Instead, players could purchase a limited number of bonus XP bundles, capped at one per day. Internal findings revealed strong player sentiment against the system, with 65% approving its removal and 54% becoming more likely to recommend RuneScape. Despite these positive results, the trial’s changes were not made permanent at the time.
Now, Jagex is taking an even bolder step. They’ve launched a new community poll, proposing the complete and permanent removal of Treasure Hunter – a truly radical move in today’s microtransaction-heavy gaming landscape.
The poll is currently live, allowing players to vote for Treasure Hunter’s complete removal from RuneScape. Jagex has committed to honoring the community’s decision, promising to eliminate the feature and all 220 associated “gameplay-benefitting” items, such as Dummies, Portables, Proteans, and XP Lamps, if the vote reaches 100,000. CEO John Bellamy articulated the company’s reasoning, stating:
“Since Squeal of Fortune was introduced in 2012, and subsequently Treasure Hunter in 2014, our approach to monetization has, over time, eroded some of the integrity at the heart of RuneScape. The most concerning elements of our MTX systems have been those that allowed players to bypass core gameplay, skipping over the depth, challenge, and sense of discovery that make RuneScape truly special. While these systems have helped fund the game, they’ve done so at a cost to something far greater: the integrity of our worlds. This vote is about correcting that, and taking a step toward designing experiences that are fair, rewarding, and built to last.”
Many players, including myself, have grown weary of constant ‘buy now’ prompts and artificial sales in multiplayer games, leading a shift towards single-player experiences. Jagex’s potential decision to remove microtransactions at a triple-A level is truly groundbreaking and demonstrates a refreshing willingness to listen to its community – a rare quality in the modern gaming industry.
Players have until Wednesday, November 12, to participate in Jagex’s crucial poll. If the community’s vote reaches 100,000, the controversial Treasure Hunter system will be permanently removed from RuneScape. This is a unique opportunity for players to shape the game’s future and advocate for a more integrity-focused experience. Share your thoughts on this bold move and any memorable ‘worst purchases’ in gaming.